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Germany funds UNIDO project on local production of essential medicines in Africa

VIENNA, 21 November 2012 – The Government of Germany will fund a EUR 1 million project in support of local production of essential generic medicines in Ghana, Kenya and additional countries in Africa. The project will begin in January 2013.

The new funding is expected to accelerate the implementation of the African Union’s Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan for Africa (PMPA), a joint endeavor with the African Union Commission.

“Unsatisfactory access to essential drugs is a key limitation that has had an impact on the health of the populations in a range of countries in Africa,” said Kandeh K. Yumkella, UNIDO Director-General.

“Local manufacturers in developing countries could be a source of assured quality drugs, especially for the poor. Certified local production is also a way to combat counterfeit drugs, which endanger human lives.”

It is envisaged that in the future, the project could include more countries: Mozambique, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

Since 2006, Germany has contributed over EUR 80 million to develop the African pharmaceutical industry and foster the production of essential medicines, making it by far the most important donor to this cause. UNIDO is Germany's key international partner in the promotion of local pharmaceutical production.

For more information on UNIDO efforts to strengthen the local production of essential generic drugs in developing countries, please go here